Bachelor of Laws

Kava Finau is a family oriented young leader, bringing resilience, gratitude, and ambition to her academic journey. Born in Tonga and raised alongside her older brother and three younger sisters, Kava grew up watching her parents work tirelessly between Australia and New Zealand to provide a better life for their family. Moving to New Zealand in 2018 and learning English as her second language, she has carried those experiences into her aspirations, shaping a deep sense of purpose and determination.

Kava is studying a Bachelor of Laws at the University of Auckland, driven by a desire to understand the legal systems that shape society and influence the lives of Pacific and migrant families. Her dream is to work in the legal field -whether as a lawyer or in advocacy. “I want to help people who feel unheard or unsupported when navigating complex processes,” she says. She hopes to use her future career to protect people’s rights, offer guidance, and create fairer pathways for her community.

Receiving the Milford Foundation Scholarship was an emotional and transformative moment for Kava and her family. The financial relief lifted a significant burden, but more importantly, the scholarship gave her confidence, motivation, and a sense of being truly supported. To her, the Foundation represents hope and a belief in her potential.

Determined, hardworking, and inspired by the sacrifices of her parents, Kava is ready to begin university with enthusiasm and a strong sense of purpose—committed to making a meaningful difference, one family at a time.